Toshiba Finally Unveils its Third-Generation HD DVD Players

Although the new HD DVD technology has been around for a relatively limited period of time, the technological developments and breakthroughs achieved since then have already pushed it towards its third iteration. And the moment we've all been expecting for quite some time now has finally arrived, as Toshiba, the very creator of the HD DVD format, has announced its third generation of HD DVD players, which provide several important upgrades compared to the previous generation.

Thus, all the devices from this latest line provide an improvement in video performance with 1080p/24 frames per second (24p) support, which is actually extremely important, considering the fact that movies are traditionally captured at 24 frames per second. Moreover, the new Toshiba machines will provide "CE-Link" (HDMI-CEC) connectivity which offers the capability to communicate with and control another CE device in a very innovative manner, enhancing the level of control exerted by the user, while making things a lot easier.

The new line of HD DVD players includes three new models, namely the entry-level HD-A3, the mid-range HD-A30 and the high-end HD-A35. While the HD-A3 will support only the 1080i resolution, the HD-A30 and HD-A35 will output 1080p resolution (1920 x 1080p), the highest HD signal currently available.

Moreover, the HD-A35 also adds support for Deep Color via HDMI, thus allowing compatible display devices to provide very high quality images. Moreover, the high-end A35 offers 5.1 channel analog output and High Bit Rate Audio (up to 7.1 channel) via HDMI. With content encoded in 7.1ch, this advanced surround sound is achieved through the HDMI connection bypassing the player's internal audio processor and sending the signal to a 7.1 capable A/V receiver.

The HD-A3 and HD-A35 models will hit the shelves in October, for around $299.99 and $499.99, respectively, while the mid-range HD-A30 will be available in September, for $399.

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